Two Drink Minimum: Golden Gecko serves up beer, wine and jazz

GOLDEN GECKOThe Golden Gecko is located at 202 E. Forrest St. and is open Thursday-Saturday.

There's no denying that after 5 p.m., most of downtown Victoria becomes a ghost town. The Golden Gecko, a bar and jazz club located on Forrest Street, is trying to change that.

Opened in April by Frank Reyes, the venue was formerly the Hauschild Opry House and was renovated by Reyes. Open and airy with wood floors and exposed brick arches, the large space has a vintage vibe and an upscale decor, with plenty of space to dance when live music acts play. In the evening, large swaths of sunlight float in through the high windows, while at night, most light comes the glow of candles placed on the tables.

The bar features a wine and beer selection with prices that are easy on the wallet ($2 domestics, $3 imports and $3 wine). Strictly for a 21-year-old and up crowd, Golden Gecko is currently open from 5 p.m. to midnight Thursday; 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday; and 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday.

Music acts range from a multitude of genres, and of little-known to well-established local bands. The bar is also known to host comedy nights from time to time.

The Golden Gecko is located at 202 E. Forrest St. For more information, call 361-485-0386.